AMA urges Halloween caution, provides tips on staying safe

By ANNA SMITH Local Journalism Initiative on October 31, 2024.

asmith@medicinehatnews.com

The Alberta Motorist’s Association reminds residents that keeping “little ghosts and goblins” safe on Halloween night is a community effort.

“Halloween safety isn’t the sole responsibility of families with young children; we all need to look out for one another,” said Misty Harris, spokesperson for AMA. “Simple things like ensuring visibility, removing tripping hazards and driving with extra care can make all the difference.”

AMA recommends favouring light coloured costumes or using glowsticks to enhance visibility on children, as well as reflective elements. While supplies last, reflective armbands can be picked up at any AMA centre.

Masks often reduce visibility, making face paint the way to go, said AMA, and long costumes can create tripping hazards when dashing from house to house. Older children, if they’re heading out haunting on their own, should be walked through their route beforehand, and warned not to enter any strange houses or vehicles to warm up.

Trick-or-treaters should cross at designated crosswalks and travel in groups where possible, increasing their chances of being seen by motorists.

Said motorists, for their part, should endeavour to make eye contact with people crossing and be on the lookout for people between parked cars, as kids can have a diminished view of the road, and excitement can cause them to be less aware of their surroundings.

“Avoid in-vehicle distractions such as cellphones, loud music and heated debates about the merits of candy corn,” said AMA. “And watch your speed in residential areas, especially near playgrounds or schools, which often serve as neighbourhood meeting spots. With a little preparation and extra caution, we can make this a frightfully fabulous Halloween for everyone.”

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